The NFL is taking its gridiron gladiators on a global tour yet again, with announcements that the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings are slated to play their 2024 regular-season games across the pond in London. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers will be packing their bags for Germany, marking the league's continuous effort to touchdown on international soil.
According to a statement released by the NFL, the Bears and Vikings will each host a match at Tottenham's premiere stadium in London. Over at Wembley Stadium, which is no stranger to hosting American football, the Jacksonville Jaguars are set to return for a game as part of their regular U.K. appearances starting since 2013.
This isn't a first for NFL action in Germany either, with the Panthers planning to electrify crowds at Allianz Arena in Munich. As home turf to Bayern Munich and the site of the NFL’s first regular-season game in Germany back in 2022, the stadium is rapidly becoming a favorite for American football aficionados in Europe.
CBS News reported the Jaguars have quite the history with London games, having been consistent guests since 2013 and doubling up with two consecutive week matches in 2023. On the other hand, the Vikings and Bears are making a return after their last London calls in 2022 and 2019, respectively. Meanwhile, News18 revealed that the NFL is set to break new ground with its first regular-season game in São Paulo, Brazil, although the hosting team remains a mystery for now.
The league promises specific dates and opponents for these international showings to be announced in due time. It's clear the NFL's strategy includes expanding its reach, gaining new fans, and perhaps inspiring a few international dreams of Super Bowl rings. Whatever the outcome, the excitement for American football’s global play is just heating up, with more eyes on the game than ever before.
